MOGADISHU [SMN] – The Somali Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Macalin Fiqi, has responded to recent remarks by former President Sheikh Sharif, who stated that heavy weaponry should not be allowed in Mogadishu and that no one-person-one-vote election should take place without consensus.
Minister Fiqi criticized opposition politicians, emphasizing that Mogadishu does not need officials moving around with heavy weaponry and large security details.
In a Facebook post, the Minister asserted that Mogadishu is secure and its residents feel safe and governed.
“Mogadishu’s Security is Reliable”
Speaking on the capital’s security situation, Minister Fiqi said:
“The capital Mogadishu and its residents enjoy peace and extensive reconstruction, thanks to the fight against Al-Shabaab and the control of illegal weapons.”
He expressed surprise at some politicians using what he called “the rhetoric of warlords” to justify the continued presence of illegal weapons that harm the public.
“Consensus on Elections, No Place for Illegal Weapons”
The Minister further emphasized that Mogadishu no longer requires heavy weaponry, as the city’s security is well-managed.
“We agreed on elections and a constitution. This rhetoric about illegal weapons has no place. The government and the people hold the decision.”
The Minister’s remarks come as opposition figures stated they would not disarm in Mogadishu, citing security concerns. This stance has been interpreted as a fear of a return to the lawlessness and armed factions that plagued the capital in the past.
Meanwhile, the opposition has accused the government of planning to use force to undermine their political efforts, an allegation the Minister dismissed as baseless.
Reports suggest that tensions between the opposition and the government are escalating as the upcoming elections approach, presenting both a potential opportunity for new agreements or a risk of deepening divisions.
